Meat prices in Ukraine continue to rise, and, as experts explain, several factors affect this at once. Oleg Pendzyn, a member of the Economic Discussion Club, spoke on the air of "Public Radio" about the main causes of price increases.
One of the key factors was the increase in the cost of feed, especially grain. According to the expert, the price of compound feed is of significant importance for the cost of meat, since, for example, up to 70% of the price of chicken is formed by compound feed. This increase in costs affects manufacturers and ultimately affects the consumer price of the product.
There is also a decrease in the volume of meat production in Ukraine. Pendzyn noted that pork was traditionally produced mainly in households. However, due to the outflow of labor from the villages and the reduction of the rural population, the volume of pork production is decreasing. As a result, the supply of meat on the market decreases, which in conditions of stable demand leads to an increase in prices.
Despite these factors, Pendzyn noted that the price of meat increased only slightly compared to last year, since the purchasing power of Ukrainians, which remains at a low level, also affects the price dynamics.
Another important aspect is the rise in prices for other food products, in particular vegetables, which have risen in price by almost 50% compared to last year. According to the expert, this year's weather conditions had a negative impact on yields, which increased the prices of potatoes, beets, carrots and cabbage. Some vegetables, for example, potatoes, have increased in price by 2-2.5 times.
Against the background of rising prices of various products, including vegetables and meat, Ukrainians are forced to review their grocery baskets and choose cheaper options.
